Egypt’s Child Council Calls for Updated AI Legislation to Ensure Safe Digital Environment

Egypt’s National Council for Childhood and Motherhood (NCCM) has called for updated legislation to address the growing risks posed by artificial intelligence technologies, stressing the need to ensure a safe digital environment for children.

Dr. Wael Abdel Razek, Secretary-General of the NCCM, said that Safer Internet Day, observed annually on the second Tuesday of February, represents an important opportunity to intensify efforts toward building a supportive and secure online space for children in Egypt.

Speaking in televised remarks, Abdel Razek noted that while the internet offers significant benefits for children in education, communication, and entertainment, it also presents increasing risks. He emphasized the importance of striking a balance that allows children to benefit from digital tools without being exposed to online threats.

“The Council’s role is to protect every child on Egyptian soil,” he said, underlining that the focus should be on protection rather than prohibition by creating a safe digital environment.

Addressing the legislative framework, Abdel Razek explained that Egypt’s 2018 Anti-Cybercrime Law was enacted in a different technological context. Since then, rapid developments — particularly in artificial intelligence — have introduced new challenges that require updated legal and regulatory measures.

He warned that some AI applications are now being used to exploit children in new and sophisticated ways, calling for clear legislative and regulatory intervention to address these risks.

Abdel Razek also highlighted the dangers of “deepfake” technology, which can be used to produce inappropriate images or videos involving children or adults. In addition, he pointed to risks associated with social media platforms, where children may not be aware of the true identity of individuals they interact with online, increasing the potential for exploitation.

He stressed that coordinated efforts among lawmakers, institutions, families, and technology companies are essential to safeguard children in an evolving digital landscape.